Traditional use of the Zanthoxylum Capense (Small Knobwood)

Early records show that this traditional medicine was widely used, mainly for flatulent colic, stomach ache, fever, snake bites, toothache and as a mouthwash. It is an old remedy for epilepsy and numerous other ailments.

The Zulu people use the leaves to heal sores. Infusions or decoctions of the fruits or leaves are used as a carminative medicine (taken to relieve flatulence) and to treat fever. One teaspoon of fruits or crushed leaves can be taken in one cup of water. Root or bark decoctions are used as mouthwashes.